Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Tyler, Texas

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No need to think of many good reasons to travel to Tyler, Texas. Just pack and do!

Known as America’s Rose Capital, Tyler has a long history of producing roses in eastern Texas. Its rose gardens would make it the top of your list while traveling to the biggest city in northeastern Texas.

Tyler boasts many top sights, attractions, and festivities promoting its rich history. It’s known for its Municipal Rose Garden and Annual Texas Rose Festival.

This is the kind of place that gives a suburban feel. There’s always something for you in the city, day or night.

Peruse this list and know the best and most fun things to do and places to visit in Tyler, Texas.

Azalea Residential Historic District

The first thing in mind when thinking of historic homes in Tyler, Texas, is the Azalea Residential Historic District.

The neighborhood in the historic area leaves a unique impression with its stunning homes from the mid-20th century.

The Azalea District is Tyler’s largest residential concentration in the city, divided into 36 known sections. Each displays eclectic subdivisions, architectural patterns, and beautiful structures of Queen Anne, Craftsman, Classical Revival, Ranch, and many others.

Peruse the district’s brick streets, old churches, public parks, and other infrastructure and recreation facilities. Architecture geeks and sightseers find joy in absorbing the city’s heritage.

Every corner has pleasant views of azalea plantings, pecans, oaks, and maples. This is how the district’s name came about.

Tourists like to drive through the neighborhood while the azaleas are blooming. You can tell that homeowners spend a lot of time and effort manicuring their yards and landscapes.

The best time to visit this lovely city is early spring when the azaleas and other plants fully bloom. You’ll notice how cobblestone roads complement the blooming azalea bushes beautifully!

Besides the rich architectural heritage of the Azalea District, it also represents Tyler’s tremendous growth and development.

In June 2003, the attraction was approved and designated as a National Historic District.

Address: 110 E. Charnwood Street, Tyler, TX 75711

Caldwell Zoo

See animals from around the world from the majestic Tyler, East Texas zoo.

Caldwell Zoo has provided sanctuary to all sorts of animals since 1937. Founded by a visionary who loves children and nature, the children’s zoo is a true gift to the Tyler community.

You will have an unforgettable experience as you witness the 

spectacular diversity of animals. It’s a combination of the magnificence of nature and wildlife.

The Caldwell Zoo connects people with wildlife through naturalistic exhibits, interactive, fun experiences, and nature-based educational opportunities. For decades, the Tyler community has benefited directly through the inspiration for conserving the natural world.

Over the years, you’ll see great improvements in the beautiful zoo. It now covers more than 80 acres of animal habitats and natural attractions.

There are always new additions to your experience, making you want to return for more.

Caldwell Zoo is a nice location to bring your family and kids. It’s one of the top vacation spots in Tyler.

It started as a Child Development “lab” designed by founder David King Caldwell as a place for children to interact with cute little animals like squirrels, parrots, and monkeys.

Sixteen years later, the establishment grew and has now housed more than 3,000 individual animals from over 200 species.

There are more things to do in the Caldwell zoo, such as feeding the long-necked giraffes and more animal encounters.

Finally, you deserve a treat after a long day at the best patio in Tyler at the Chakula Café, located on top of the African Overlook!

Address: 2203 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Tyler, TX 75702, United States

Camp Ford Historic Park

As the name suggests, Camp Ford Historic Park is meant to tell the history of Camp Ford.

Camp For is not a battlefield memorial but a prison camp of over 5,300 prisoners. Established in August 1863, it was the largest Confederate Prisoner of War Camp during the American Civil War.

The original site is now a public park owned by Smith County, Texas, and managed by the Smith County Historical Society. You’ll see extensive graphics detailing the camp’s history at the park’s kiosks and interpretive signage on walking trails.

After serving as a training camp, the location is now freely accessed and one of the top recreational locations in Tyler, Texas.

There are plenty of things to do and sights to see on this historic ground. You can relax in picnic areas, see the diorama of the camp’s history, or go to the cabin restoration of Lt. Col J. B. Leake.

The park is open from dusk until dawn, free of admission.

See more historical parks in Texas to appreciate the state’s history, including the best things to do and places to visit in Gruene, Texas.

Address: 6500 US-271, Tyler, TX 75708, United States

Discovery Science Place

This children’s science museum once housed an old car dealership in downtown Tyler. If you’re a science lover, you will appreciate the experience here at Discovery Science Place.

Serving the Tyler community since 1993, Discovery Science Place displays an extensive array of displays, including a small mock television news station with working cameras, an assortment of physics-related exhibits, and a manmade cave.

It’s a hands-on place for family fun and kids. Explore their bat cave, mysterious tunnel, and limestone cavern.

Trigger an earthquake under your feet and investigate the bones of “Big Ethel,” the triceratops dinosaur.

Be a kid again and explore three more exhibit halls where kids of all ages roam freely.

Discovery Science Place also has scale representations of local buildings in the city, such as Southside Bank, the Smith County Courthouse, CTMF Neonatal Nursery, Brookshire’s Grocery Store, and Hometown Veterinary Clinic.

There’s also a place for kids to dig fossils at the Dino Dig Pit or showcase athleticness at the Meso-American Rock-Climbing Wall.

Simpler attractions like a goldfish-filled tank, DSP Train Set, and Imagination Playground are nice places for relaxation, too!

If you’re new to Tyler, this famous attraction is more than just fun. It would be good if you plan an itinerary so you don’t miss out on fun-filled activities you can do.

They also host events and programs to entertain the whole family, such as “Expedition Egypt.” To remember the 100th anniversary of the discovery of King Tut’s tomb, they display pharaohs, pyramids, mummies, and tombs of the ancient Egyptian civilization.

Lastly, don’t miss their Discovery Store featuring hundreds of unique toys and gifts for sale.

Address: 308 N Broadway Ave, Tyler, TX 75702, United States

Earth And Space Science Center

Visit one more fun science center in Tyler, Texas, to stimulate your curiosity for space events.

Your adventure starts at Tyler Junior College, where the Planetarium is located. Originally known as the Hudnall Planetarium, the place reopened in 2011 after a major expansion and renovation. It was renamed the Center for Earth and Space Science Education.

Experience an immersive and full-dome view at the state-of-the-art Planetarium. It is equipped with the latest digital projection technology bringing animation to reality, and large plasma screen displays with real-time video from NASA and the Space Telescope Science Institute.

There are interesting shows like star and eclipse viewing for star enthusiasts. Their facility features interactive displays, exhibits in classrooms and outdoor play spaces, and multimedia presentations with changing programs. You’ll see cool science experiments and rocks from space.

Earth and Space Science Center is one of the largest planetariums in Texas. Its planetarium is home to the first 40′ Spitz nano-seam domed theatre in East Texas.

Their exhibit areas are always changing. Other events in the complex include meeting spaces for science classes, lectures, and public affairs.

Science learning is a different kind of fun!

Address: 1411 E Lake St, Tyler, TX 75701, USA

Goodman-LeGrand House & Museum

The Goodman–LeGrand House & Museum dates back to the Civil War era.

This Texas attraction has been around town for over one and a half centuries. It became a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1962 for many reasons.

The Goodman-LeGrand House & Museum is a Greek Revival cottage, previously named “Bonnie Castle.” It was built on a 9-acre of land by a man who would go on to join the Confederate States Army.

When he sold this estate to a local teacher, it became a haven for refugee families fleeing the Union Army in 1862.

In 1866, it was sold to one Samuel A. Goodman, a retired physician. The Goodman generation carried on, kept by one Sallie Goodman and her husband, James Hutcheson LeGrand.

It’s not the same house you see today after several remodeling. The home is now styled in classic revival, with iconic semi-circular porticos.

Historians and antique lovers will be delighted to see this Tyler landmark as it brings back the past.

Despite the change in times, some original furnishings, photographs, and memorabilia remain preserved in this historic home.

You will certainly find the tour impressive after hearing a more detailed story of the house’s history. You should put this on your travel list if you’re around Tyler!

Address: Goodman Park, 624 N Broadway Ave, Tyler, TX 75702, United States

Historic Aviation Memorial Museum

One unique destination in Tyler, Texas, is the local military museum at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

The aviation museum, once an old passenger terminal building, houses real military aircraft, historical memorabilia, hands-on exhibits, and a real flight simulator. Outside, you will see a static display of historic military aircraft.

These tell a lot about the aviation history in Texas throughout times of war and peace.

There’s a multimedia theater room where flight-simulating daily shows are shown, a library of interesting books and manuscripts, and a gift shop.

The HAMM hangar facility is used for flying and restoration space for old aircraft.

It would be very cool to watch high-profile airshows and air exhibits they commonly hold here year-round.

They had held special mission flights as part of fundraising efforts, including the Wings Over Tyler Air Show and Rose City Rotor Fest.

It’s more than just airplanes and helicopters but an indoor museum where you can learn about history (and find a restaurant).

This attraction will certainly be on every aviation enthusiast’s list of travel destinations.

Address: 150 Airport Dr # 2-7, Tyler, TX 75704, United States

Kiepersol Vineyards, Winery & Distillery

There’s always a fine wine-tasting room on every corner and city in Texas. You will always know how to find it!

Kiepersol Vineyards, Winery & Distillery in Tyler, Texas, believes that sharing your passions for food, wine, spirits, and a place is an excellent experience.

The award-winning estate spans 63 acres across vineyards and wonderful landscapes where their artisan wines are produced “from grape to bottle.”

One of the best things to do in Tyler is visiting one of their premiere tasting rooms for wines and spirits – the Grand Room. Here, you can taste 100% Texas estate-grown, single vineyard wines produced on-site with your guiding expert.

Once you’ve chosen a signature estate cocktail, feel free to sit back and relax on their patio overlooking a scenic view place. Or, you can enjoy your drink partnered with great food at their #1-rated restaurant onsite.

Kiepersol offers more amenities such as tours, bed & breakfast, events, RV Park, and more.

Their recipes include a variety of appetizers (their famous marinated cheese), sides (citrus and tart cranberries), desserts (wine-poached pears), and more.

Experience local with all things made in Texas!

Address: 21556-B Merlot Ln, Tyler, TX 75703, United States

Texas Rose Horse Park

The family-operated premier facility is designed as an event space “where the best come to compete.”

Located in the beautiful rolling hills of Tyler, Texas, Texas Rose Horse Park boasts a full-sized, well-lighted indoor arena, six all-weather footing outdoor show arenas, including one Grand Prix Jumper Ring, and three show barns of over 300 horses.

They serve both the Western and English horse communities and non-equestrian organizations.

It’s a perfect location for equestrian travelers as Texas Rose Horse Park has an ideal setting for corporate picnics, meetings, parties, wedding celebrations, concerts, and more!

You can reserve a tour or any of their facilities for your next event in a smooth transaction.

Texas Rose Horse Park also provides full horse training, lesson, and boarding program at their Brunson Equestrian Center. Whether you’re a first-time beginner rider or an advanced competitor, you are welcome!

You can enjoy recreational riding or competition in Brunson Equestrian seven days a week year-round.

You can book a guided trail ride on the property if you want a clear view of the beautiful Tyler hills.

For more exciting horseback riding experiences in Texas, visit the best things to do and places to visit in Wimberley, Texas.

Address: 14078 TX-110, Tyler, TX 75704, United States

The McClendon House

Also a recorded Texas Historic Landmark, The McClendon House is a destination spot worth the drive.

It depicts one of the finest examples of Eastlake Bracketed Victorian Architecture in East Texas, something you rarely see today.

In your guided tour, you will be introduced to Tyler’s political and cultural history post-Civil War. The house is also the birthplace of noted Washington D.C. news correspondent Sarah McClendon.

Of the 76 homes or buildings listed in the Tyler Register of Historic Places, only the Goodman-Le-Grand Home and McClendon House are available for tours. Although McClendon House is self-financed, it managed to stay intact and well-maintained.

It’s like walking through history when you see the house’s beautifully preserved items and historical elements.

You can ensure that your designated guides know their facts about the house’s history and the families who lived there.

The place is also available for weddings, parties, and other celebrations. Tours are available by appointment only.

The museum remains beautiful and well-kept after all these years. Missing it out on your trip would be a waste.

Address: 625 S Vine Ave, Tyler, TX 75701, United States

Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary

Home of rescued tigers, lions, leopards, and other big cats, the Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary is a place to meet majestic animal refugees in Tyler, Texas.

Tiger Creek has saved abused, neglected, and displaced animals since 1995. They build large natural habitats to rehabilitate the animals and amenities for guests.

Here, you will learn about animal rescue and research efforts and have the opportunity to get involved. They will tell you how you can further support animal conversation!

Tiger Creek is very specific in their purpose: to promote stewardship through their educational programs for people of all ages. Thanks to their generous supporters, they were able to rescue and tend to over 150 endangered animals.

The 173-acre wildlife preserve is now the nation’s oldest independent, non-breeding rescue animal sanctuary.

Have an interesting wildlife tour in their most advanced facilities in the United States, safe and comfortable for both animals and guests. You’ll be helping the preserve continue its legacy in this simple way.

Visit the little red cabin (now an intermediate feed room) where Tiger Creek had its humble beginning.

There’s also a nice souvenir shop near the small kiosk where visitors check in.        

Tiger Creek’s passion for conservation does not end here. They continue to work with conservationists, biologists, and other zoos to protect the animals.

They now serve under the National Foundation for Rescued Animals.

Address: 17552 FM14, Tyler, TX 75706, United States

Tyler Berry Farm

Fill your basket with fresh fruits and vegetables in East Texas!

A farm experience in Tyler Berry Farm should be on your itinerary when you visit Tyler, Texas. They are located right near Caldwell Zoo and are one of the travel destinations for picking blueberries.

The farm grows its own tomatoes, pepper, potatoes, herbs, and more.

You can pick your favorite batch of blueberries, blackberries, peaches, pumpkins, purple hull peas, and other vegetables in their limited gardening space. You can even pick a Christmas tree!

You will be provided with a bag or basket upon arrival. For those traveling a long way, the farm recommends bringing a cooler to store the produce in. You can also enjoy them on one of their picnic tables with some games for children.

They serve snacks and refreshments to cool off from the hot east Texas weather. It’s best if you bring your water!

Speaking of the hot weather, consider going early before the heat. Wear sunscreen or bug spray to avoid discomfort; you should have a wonderful time!

This “U PICK” strawberry and blueberry farm wants families and friends to come out and enjoy the fresh air.

Their seasonal blueberry picking is in June and July, and sunflower picking is in August. If you’re planning to visit Tyler Berry Farm, it would be great to come around on the weekend during those months!

Address: 9628 County Rd 429, Tyler, TX 75704, United States

Tyler Museum of Art

Support works of international and local artists in the Tyler Museum of Art, an award-winning private corporation accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.

The Museum encourages art education in the community and has permanent collections of Texas artists. It’s enriching to walk around this educational and cultural center in east Texas and appreciate visual arts!

For over 45 years, Tyler Museum of Art has welcomed locals and visitors of Smith County with its great exhibits and educational events.

They are the first established art museum within 100 miles of Tyler, Texas. They started as Community Arts Committee, visiting classrooms and educating children about art.

In 1960, a proper art center was established, and it soon became an official museum in 1971.

Their 17,000-square-foot space houses three galleries with more than 1,500 permanent collection works, plus temporary exhibits.

Laura & Dan Boeckman Collection of Mexican and Latin American Folk Art is one of their known works, alongside many contemporary local arts from Texas.

As you spend an exciting day watching stunning exhibitions, you can stop by the Museum Shop or have a delicious meal in the Museum Café. They serve a light lunch of specialty soups, sandwiches, and salads in a comfortable, relaxing room.

Share this experience with a friend, and don’t skip the fun parts!

Address: 1300 S Mahon Ave, Tyler, TX 75701, United States

Tyler Rose Garden

This stunning 14-acre manicured attraction in Tyler features over 500 rose varieties across 35,000 bushes.

Tyler Rose Garden is one of the best things to see in the city! 

You can enjoy many things in this romantic setting, from dusk until dawn, seven days a week,

Tyler Rose Garden is divided into several different areas, including the Meditation Garden, Heritage Rose Garden, Summer Garden, Ida Garden, and the Queen’s Court.

You will be greeted by beautiful water features, like the Archway Fountain and ponds, and see 200 varieties of the most vibrant roses in different colors everywhere you go.

It is ideal to visit in October and mid-late May when the roses are in peak blooming season. You may want to consider this if you plan to celebrate a special event here, like a wedding, reunion, and more.

You will most likely come across their gift shop on your way to the Rose Garden. Don’t forget to check it out for souvenirs!

There’s no better place to know the story of Tyler’s rose-growing industry and the pageantry of the Texas Rose Festival than here. It displays memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and costumes and accessories from past festivals.

You don’t have to look further if you want a short seasonal stroll with amazing views!

Address: 420 Rose Park Dr, Tyler, TX 75702, United States

Tyler State Park

The beautiful Tyler State Park is one of the country’s best scenic destinations.

The state park north of Tyler spans 985.5 acres in Smith County, including a 64-acre lake, historic structures, and over 100-foot trees!

You can do many fun things and recreation in this northern part of the city, whether on a weekend, afternoon, or special holidays like Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Feel free to bike, hike, picnic, geocache, camp, bird watch, and study nature in the state park. There are more than 13 miles of trails in Pineywoods, including the famous Whispering Pines Nature Trail.

Swim in the lake, fed by a refreshing spring.

Do you know what would make your experience more fun? – catching a catfish, perch, crappie, or bass in the lake from one of the park’s three fishing piers and a boat ramp.

No worries about leaving behind your fishing equipment because Tyler State Park loans fishing rods, reels, and tackle boxes as part of TPWD’s Tackle Loaner Program.

You can also rent a boat (they allow a five mph speed limit).

If you feel like extending your stay at the park, you can camp overnight in one of their campsites, cabins, or screened shelters.

They also sell nature-oriented gifts, toys, and books at their souvenir store, as well as snacks, fishing, and camping supplies.

Easily find your favorite serene spot in one of the biggest state parks in town. It’s perfect for a day trip, a weekend reset, or a week-long vacay!

Address: 789 Park Rd 16, Tyler, TX 75706, United States

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